In response to the body of scientific evidence that highlights the benefits of eating fish, the Dietary Guidelines for Australians and The Heart Foundation Australia recommend including at least two servings of fish a week in a well-balanced diet.

What are the risks or mercury in seafood

Despite the many advantages of eating fish, most contain traces of mercury, which accumulates in the water where fish and shellfish feed. Some types of fish have more mercury than others depending on the species of fish (eg large predator fish), size, age and where they eat (eg certain bodies of water are more polluted than others).

For most people, mercury from eating fish is not linked to health risks because Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) monitors the amount of mercury in the environment and advises the type of fish that may be high in mercury; thus keeping mercury at safe levels for consumption. However, mercury can cause damage to the developing nervous system of a young child or foetus if consumed in excess. To address this concern, FSANZ issued a consumer advisory in 2004 for all people, but with particular focus on pregnant women, women who may become pregnant and young children to limit exposure to mercury from fish while continuing to receive the health benefits.

Pregnant women, women planning pregnancy and children (up to 6 years) should have 2-3 serves per week of any fish and seafood but follow the guidelines below.

Pregnant women, women planning pregnancy and children should have only one serve per fortnight of Shark (Flake) or Billfish (Swordfish/Broadbill and Marlin) and no other fish that fortnight.

Pregnant women, women planning pregnancy and children should have only one serve per week of Orange Roughy (Sea Perch) or Catfish and no other fish that week.

The rest of the population should include 2-3 serves per week of any fish and seafood but if they choose to eat Orange Roughy (Sea Perch), Catfish, Shark (Flake) or Billfish (Swordfish/Broadbill and Marlin) they should have no other fish that week.

Unfortunately, there is research to suggest that women of childbearing age and children are often not including enough fish and shellfish in their diet. So while it is important to follow these guidelines to limit the amount of mercury, they should not be interpreted as a reason to avoid fish altogether. The nutrients that fish provides are critical to growth and development.

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